Eastside Distilling secures import approval for China

Portland's Eastside Distilling has secured approval from the Chinese government to export its brands to China.

The approval covers the company's whiskey portfolio of Burnside Bourbon, Barrel Hitch American Whiskey, Cherry Bomb Whiskey and Marionberry Whiskey, as well as Portland Potato Vodka.

The company claims that according to an article in CNBC, the demand for western spirits is increasing in China, because of the growing middle class and their demand for premium and iconic American Brands.

The demand is also being attributed to the growing number of whiskey bars and tasting clubs whose focus in more on imported spirits in the country. Also, several restaurants in China are stocking premium imports.

According to a statistics compiled by Euromonitor International, Chinese spirit industry is being forecasted to generate about $143.2bn in sales in 2016. This has also been cited by the Distilled Spirits Council of the US.

This is an 8.3% increase in annual growth since 2011. Spirit exports from US to China have also reached all-time high of $15.1m in 2015, which is a 35% increase compared to 2013.

Eastside Distilling president Steven Earles said: “This approval is the culmination of two years of efforts, including government mandated testing and review, and is a big step forward in our effort to grow international sales. The Asia Pacific region accounts for approximately 50% of the global whiskey market, representing a significant opportunity.

“I also believe our Portland Potato Vodka will appeal to discerning Chinese consumers looking for grain vodka alternative. I look forward to working with distributors in the region to bring our craft whiskeys, bourbons, rums and vodka to the Chinese consumers.”